Read a friend’s novel for critique on Wednesday. Start a new editing contract after that. Can’t really work on Book 4 of my series until I get my beta reads back, and the edits for the novel excerpt I submitted at Rio Hondo I plan to do at an early-June writers’ retreat where I can really dig my teeth into it.

Science Fiction 5/5

Tyler tries to navigate a world—and save his love—on an Earth sealed off from the universe by unknown aliens with an unknown objective. This lyrically written story delves into meaning, love, science, and philosophy while the jaws of danger inexorably close around the protagonists. Though not fast-paced, I found it a beautiful experience as well as a gripping story.

Just got back from Rio Hondo. Got some super-helpful critiques on a novel. Awesome group to work with!

Historical 5+/5

This novel is based on a pastiche of actual historical events, but particularly on the life of Edith Hahn Beer, who survived being a Jewish woman during World War II partially by marrying a Nazi party member who loved her and kept her secret. This story is gripping from beginning to end, and also casts a new light on life on the other side of the Allied/Axis line, which we don’t often get from stories by Western authors.

I’m at Rio Hondo! Crossing the border was no problem, flights were smooth, and I have all the stories downloaded for critique this week. I’ve read 5 so far, and we critique 2 tomorrow starting at 11AM. I’ve only done Rio Hondo once before, but this is an excellent place to learn tons and up my game.